Coexpression of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor, Vasopressin, and Oxytocin mRNAs in Neurons of the Rat Hypothalamic Supraoptic and Paraventricular Nuclei

Abstract : This study was designed to gain better insight into the relationship between glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) (7-36) amide and vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OX). In situ hybridization histochemistry revealed colocalization of the mRNAs for GLP-1 receptor, AVP, and OX in neurons of the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei. To determine whether GLP-1(7-36)amide alters AVP and/or OX release, both in vivo and in vitro experimental study designs were used. In vivo, intravenous administration of 1 μg of GLP-1(7-36)amide into the jugular vein significantly decreased plasma AVP and OX concentrations. In vitro incubation of the neurohypophysis with either 0.1 or 1 μg of GLP-1(7-36)amide did not modify the release of AVP. However, addition of 1 μg of GLP-1(7-36)amide to the incubation medium increased slightly the secretion of OX. The coexpression of GLP-1 receptor and AVP mRNAs in hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei gives further support to the already reported central effects of GLP-1(7-36)amide on AVP. Our findings also suggest a dual secretory response of AVP and OX to the effect of GLP-1(7-36)amide, which most likely is related to the amount and/or the route of peptide administration.